Caribbean: Tropical Storm Kirk to hit Lesser Antilles Sep. 27 /update 2

Event

Tropical Storm Kirk continues to move towards the Lesser Antilles. As of 05:00 (local time) on Thursday, September 27, the storm was located approximately 135 km (85 mi) east-northeast of Barbados. According to the latest forecasts from the US-based National Hurricane Center, Kirk is expected to pass north of Barbados on Thursday before passing over the remaining Windward Islands. Tropical storm warnings are currently in effect for Barbados, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. A lower tropical storm watch has been issued for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Up to 10 cm (4 in) of rain, strong winds, and violent surf are to be anticipated on these islands. Associated transportation, power, and telecommunication disruptions are likely. Other areas in the region could also experience potentially hazardous stormy weather in the coming hours and days, including Puerto Rico, Grenada, and the northern coast of Colombia.

Context

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the largest concentration of storms typically occurring between August and October. Researchers predicted a slightly below-average hurricane season for 2018.

Advice

Individuals in the above areas are advised to closely follow local weather forecasts and adhere to any advice issued by local authorities.